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Zika Virus Infection in United States of America (Florida)

30 July 2016

On 29 July the Florida Department of Health confirmed four locally acquired cases of Zika virus infection in Florida State, specifically in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Authorities believe that active transmission of ZIKV is occurring in an approximately 1 square mile zone in Miami-Dade County, just north of downtown. While no mosquitoes trapped have tested positive for ZIKV, authorities believe these cases were likely transmitted through infected mosquitoes in this area.

The Florida Department of Health is actively conducting door-to-door outreach in the impacted area to help determine the number of people affected and will share more details as they become available. A map of the zone affected in Miami-Dade county is here.

Florida has been categorised as a Moderate risk area for the purpose of advising travellers. This means that although infection is not widespread, and the authorities have acted quickly and put control measures in place, there remains the potential for pregnant women to be exposed to infection.

Advice to Travellers

All Travellers

  • Mosquito bite avoidance is strongly recommended.
  • Advised to seek travel advice from a healthcare provider at least 6-8 weeks in advance of travel, but particularly important if pregnant or planning pregnancy.
  • Strongly advised to obtain adequate travel insurance – pregnant women should check with their travel insurance company that they are covered under the policy.
  • Take measures to avoid sexual transmission of ZIKV

Specific recommendations for pregnant women

Until the link between ZIKV and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been fully clarified pregnant women should:

  • Consider postponing non-essential travel to the affected areas until after pregnancy.
  • On return, early obstetric review is recommended even if well.
  • More detailed advice can be found here

Specific recommendatons for other travellers

Including women at risk of becoming pregnant, planning pregnancy, and their male partners. Further information and more detailed advice can be found on the TRAVAX ZIKV Infection page

Further Resources